On Monday, Air India announced that they’ve processed COVID-19-related refunds for passengers, worth more than ₹150 crores. The refund process began in the first few months after salt-to-software conglomerate Tata group took back control of the airline. The group took back control from the government in January this year.
Air India Processes Full Backlog Of Over 2.5 Lakh COVID-19-Related Refunds
“Over 2.5 lakh cases totalling more than ₹150 crores have been handled in the first few months after privatization,” Air India said in a statement. Great efforts have been made to improve processes and systems. Air India also used technology to process new claims faster. Air India processed all COVID-19-related refund requests — submitted on their website — within 2 to 3 days.
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However, it may take another two weeks for the customer to see the refund in their account. This is because further processing of refunds by banks and credit card companies is not in Air India’s control. For bookings made through a travel agency, the refund will be made to the travel agency. And the travel agency will be responsible for paying the traveller.
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Air India’s Top Priority Is To Resolve Outstanding Refunds
Like all airlines, Air India has been dramatically impacted by COVID-19, which unfortunately has affected many of their customers’ travel plans. However, they acknowledged that refunds have been a problem for many airlines during the global pandemic and subsequent recovery.
In a statement, an Air India spokesperson said the settlement of the refund outstanding is a top priority for the airline. This is one of many measures to meet customer expeditions and quickly address post-privatization legacy issues.
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The airline is also redesigning its flight schedules, and addressing all the flight delays and their respective causes. In short, Air India is on a mission to improve all its shortcomings. And if you have any stuck COVID-19 refund with Air India, expect to get it soon.
News Source: Hindustan Times
Cover image courtesy: Air India Instagram